SOLE vs Echelon Treadmill Comparison | Features, Pros & Cons

Key Takeaways

• SOLE treadmills are known for their durability, spacious running surfaces, and high-performance motors.
• Echelon treadmills excel in compact, tech-forward designs.
• SOLE models provide better cushioning, which reduces joint impact by up to 40%, ideal for long-term comfort during intense running sessions.
• Echelon treadmills focus on higher speed and compact storage.
• Both brands offer unique strengths—choose SOLE for performance and durability, and Echelon for technology and space-saving designs.

SOLE vs Echelon Treadmill Comparison | Features, Pros & Cons

SOLE and Echelon are two well-known treadmill brands with unique offerings. SOLE is recognized for durable, high-performance treadmills that suit both casual and serious runners. Echelon, on the other hand, provides access to on-demand classes streamed on the treadmill’s wide displays.

If you’re deciding between SOLE and Echelon, understanding how their models differ in motor power, running surface, cushioning, and features can help you choose the right treadmill to match your fitness goals.

At SOLE Fitness, we're proud to offer the best treadmills for your home or gym. These machines are crafted to meet the highest standards of quality and performance, ensuring they are ideal for anyone - from fitness novices to seasoned athletes. Featured Product SOLE Treadmills: Starting at $1,199.99, SOLE treadmills excel in ergonomic design, durability, and value. Equipped with advanced cushioning to minimize joint impact, powerful, quiet motors, and wide running surfaces, they suit any fitness level.

Motor Power

The motor power of a treadmill determines its performance, especially at higher speeds and inclines.

Model	SOLE F65	SOLE F80	SOLE F85	Echelon Stride 4S	Echelon Stride 6S-10	Echelon Stride 8S
Motor Power	3.0 HP	3.5 HP	4.0 HP	3.0 CHP	3.0 CHP	3.75 HP

Sole Treadmills: The SOLE F65 comes with a 3.0 HP motor—offering enough power for moderate to intense workouts. The SOLE F80—with its 3.5 HP motor—is suitable for users looking for a treadmill that can handle tougher, more frequent workouts. Need even more power? The SOLE F85 features a 4.0 HP motor—delivering top performance for serious runners or those engaging in high-intensity training.

Echelon Treadmills: The Stride 4S and 6S-10 feature a 3.0 CHP motor, which is sufficient for regular home workouts, but may not be the best option for long-term intense use. The Stride 8S comes with a 3.75 HP motor, offering a stronger engine that can handle tougher workouts.

Running Surface

The size of the running surface can impact comfort and stability, especially for taller users or those who run at faster speeds.

Model	SOLE F65	SOLE F80	SOLE F85	Echelon Stride 4S	Echelon Stride 6S-10	Echelon Stride 8S
Running Surface	22” x 60”	22” x 60”	22” x 60”	20” x 60”	20.5” x 60”	20” x 60”

Sole Treadmills: The SOLE models—the F65, F80, and F85—offer a spacious 22” x 60” running surface. This provides ample room for comfortable strides. This extra space also ensures more stability—which is especially important during intense workouts. For users seeking maximum comfort and stability, the larger running surface on SOLE treadmills is a key benefit.

Echelon Treadmills: The Echelon Stride 4S and 8S both feature a 20” x 60” running deck, while the Stride 6S-10 offers a slightly larger 20.5” x 60” surface. If you’re a taller runner or need extra room for fast-paced workouts, you may notice the difference in space compared to SOLE’s treadmills.

Cushioning

Cushioning reduces the impact on your joints, which is essential for long-term running comfort.

SOLE: SOLE treadmills are known for their Cushion Flex Whisper Deck, which reduces joint impact by up to 40%. This cushioning is ideal for users looking to protect their knees and joints during runs.

Echelon: Echelon treadmills come with DuroFlex cushioning, which also reduces joint strain but may not be as effective as SOLE’s system​.

Speed & Incline

Speed and incline are key for varying workout intensity.

Model	SOLE F65	SOLE F80	SOLE F85	Echelon Stride 4S	Echelon Stride 6S-10	Echelon Stride 8S
Max Speed	12 MPH	12 MPH	12 MPH	12.5 MPH	12.5 MPH	12.5 MPH
Incline Range	15 levels	15 levels	15 levels	12 levels​	12 levels​	12 levels​

Sole Treadmills: The SOLE F65, F80, and F85 models all offer a maximum speed of 12 MPH—which is sufficient for most users. Each model features an incline range of 15 levels, allowing for significant variations in workout intensity. The broader incline range makes these treadmills ideal for users who want to challenge themselves with steeper inclines, simulating uphill runs for added resistance and cardio benefits.

Echelon Treadmills: Echelon’s Stride 4S, 6S-10, and 8S provide a slightly higher maximum speed of 12.5 MPH. However, their incline range is limited to 12 levels—which may not offer as much intensity variation as SOLE’s models.

Console & Features

The console is where you interact with your treadmill—important for tracking progress and accessing workout features.

Model	SOLE F65	SOLE F80	SOLE F85	Echelon Stride 4S	Echelon Stride 6S-10	Echelon Stride 8S
Display	9” backlit LCD	10.1” touchscreen	15.6” touchscreen	22” HD touchscreen	10” HD touchscreen	22” swivel touchscreen
Programs	7 preset, 2 custom	10 preset, 12 custom	10 preset, 12 custom	Info N/A	Info N/A	Info N/A
Bluetooth	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️	✔️
WiFi	❌	✔️	✔️	Info N/A	Info N/A	Info N/A

Sole Treadmills: The SOLE F65 features a 9” backlit LCD screen with 7 preset and 2 custom programs. Moving up, the F80 offers a 10.1” touchscreen display with 10 preset and 12 custom programs. The F85 takes it a step further with a 15.6” touchscreen, providing an even larger and more interactive interface. All SOLE models support Bluetooth connectivity, with the F80 and F85 adding WiFi for seamless integration with fitness apps and media streaming.

Echelon Treadmills: The Echelon Stride 4S stands out with its large 22” HD touchscreen, which provides an immersive workout experience, though information on preset programs isn’t available. The Stride 6S-10 offers a smaller 10” HD touchscreen, while the Stride 8S goes back up to a 22” swivel touchscreen, allowing users to adjust the display for optimal viewing. All Echelon models support Bluetooth connectivity, improving the interactive and connected workout experience, but WiFi availability is not specified.

General Considerations

Price
Price is always a factor when choosing a treadmill.

Model	SOLE F65	SOLE F80	SOLE F85	Echelon Stride 4S	Echelon Stride 6S-10	Echelon Stride 8S
Price	$1,499.99	$1,899.99	$2,399.99	$1,599.99	$1,399.99	$2,249.99

Warranty
SOLE treadmills offer lifetime coverage on both frame and motor. Echelon models provide up to 5 years for frame and motor under certain conditions​.

Space & Storage
SOLE treadmills—while foldable—are bulkier than Echelon’s designs. The Echelon Stride series is known for its auto-fold feature, making it good for smaller spaces​.

SOLE vs Echelon: Find Your Match

If you’re a runner looking for performance, durability, and a spacious running surface, SOLE is the better option. If you want a tech-forward treadmill that saves space, Echelon may be a better fit.

Both brands provide excellent features for different needs, so consider what aligns with your fitness goals.

Power Your Run with SOLE Treadmills

At SOLE, we’re committed to delivering treadmills that meet the highest standards of durability, performance, and comfort.

The SOLE F65 offers a 3.0 HP motor, 22” x 60” running surface, and up to 15 incline levels—making it ideal for home users who need reliability and performance without breaking the bank. It features a 9” backlit LCD, Bluetooth connectivity, and a lifetime warranty on the motor and frame, giving you peace of mind for years to come.

The SOLE F80—widely regarded as the best in its class—packs a 3.5 HP motor. With a 10.1” touchscreen display, WiFi, Bluetooth, and preloaded apps like Netflix, the F80 combines performance with entertainment—so you can push yourself while staying connected.

The SOLE F85—our top-of-the-line model—is designed for those who demand the best. Featuring a 4.0 HP motor and 22” x 60” running deck, it boasts a 15.6” touchscreen display and wireless charging​. With a max weight capacity of 375 lbs, this treadmill is perfect for the most intense runners and fitness enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which brand provides more advanced tech features?
SOLE and Echelon both offer advanced tech features, but they focus on different aspects. SOLE treadmills—like the F80 and F85—provide larger touchscreens (up to 15.6”), Bluetooth connectivity, and WiFi integration on higher models. These models also support media streaming through apps like Netflix.

Echelon focuses more on large HD touchscreens. For example, the Stride 4S and 8S feature 22” HD touchscreens.

Are SOLE or Echelon treadmills better for small spaces?
Echelon treadmills are better suited for small spaces, especially with their auto-folding feature. The Stride treadmills can fold flat, making them ideal for compact storage​.

Which treadmill brand has better cushioning for joint protection?
SOLE treadmills are known for their Cushion Flex Whisper Deck, which reduces joint impact by up to 40%, making them superior for long-term joint protection​.

How do SOLE and Echelon compare in terms of speed and incline?
SOLE treadmills, such as the F65, F80, and F85, offer a maximum speed of 12 MPH and an incline range of 15 levels, providing users with significant workout intensity variation.

Echelon treadmills, like the Stride 4S, 6S-10, and 8S, have a slightly higher maximum speed of 12.5 MPH but offer a lower incline range of 12 levels, which may limit intensity for those looking for steeper inclines​.